Blink, and you’ll miss it. Alloy Bistro Gourmet, located in the heart of Downtown Miami, is a bit hidden from the hustle and bustle of the city, but eagle-eyed visitors are in for a treat. Inside this cozy eatery, expect nothing short of an unforgettable meal by Chef Federico Genovese, who’s been cooking up inspired Mediterranean fare here since 2016 (before Downtown Miami became the culinary hotspot it is today).

On the menu, you’ll find an array of options, from starters like Baby Spinach salad, Burrata, and Cauliflower, as well as heartier plates such as Beef Tartare and Octopus. While these items may sound familiar, you’ll see that there’s more than meets the eye once you read the descriptions. That octopus, for example, is more than just octopus—the plate is spiced up with potato lobster rouille and watercress gazpacho; creativity that extends to its presentation under a smoky bell jar, which is destined to show up on your next Instagram post.

If you only order one starter though, make it the Duck Prosciutto. Aged for three months, the duck is simply seasoned with freshly ground black pepper. There’s not much to it, yet there’s no need for anything more, showcasing flavors that easily stand on their own.

Dishes at Alloy Bistro Gourmet are designed for sharing, and there’s good reason for that: You’ll be tempted to try a lot of things. This is especially true of the pastas, of which there are several, and all of them bear a description that should make your mouth water. As we found out firsthand, they’ll also challenge your palate and preconceptions.

An eye-opening experience for us was the Smoked Tagliatelle. Although it contains short rib ragu—not an unfamiliar ingredient—our interest was piqued by the use of paprika oil. Our curiosity paid off, as we encountered a taste that we hadn’t come across before…one that almost made us order a second portion.

Another pasta highlight: the Ravioli Carciofo, which comes out looking like a beautiful flower. And don’t get us started on the Branzino Filet that arrives to your table inside a salted crust. That’s what makes Alloy special: Your food doesn’t just taste great—it looks great, too.

Too many times, a restaurant relies on gimmicks or outlandish flare to make up for lackluster food, but at Alloy Bistro Gourmet, there’s a rhyme and reason to every single detail. Ultimately, these efforts result in an unforgettable dining experience…an experience you’ll be rushing to share with your peers.

By Geoffrey Anderson Jr. and Dianne Rubin-Anderson, contributing writers